Mumbai: Former India cricketer Lakshmipathy Balaji has compared Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma, describing the Gujarat Titans skipper as a “shorter version” of the Indian captain because of his elegant strokeplay and effortless batting style. Balaji praised Gill’s remarkable consistency and personal growth since joining Gujarat Titans in 2022. Gill, who was initially picked by Kolkata Knight Riders after his successful Under-19 World Cup campaign in 2018, took time to establish himself in the IPL before flourishing with Gujarat.
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While his first season with GT was relatively modest despite the team winning the title, Gill has since transformed into one of the league’s most dependable batters. Since 2023, he has consistently scored heavily while maintaining an impressive strike rate. In IPL 2026, Gill has already amassed 467 runs at a strike rate of 158.31. “He is a classical cricketer who bats with ease. He is the shorter version of Rohit Sharma. Like Rohit, he is flamboyant, has extra time, and plays the backfoot cover drive beautifully,” Balaji said while praising the opener’s conventional yet aggressive style of play.
Gill’s impressive form has also boosted his captaincy credentials, with Gujarat Titans enjoying another strong campaign this season. The franchise currently has eight wins from 12 matches and stands close to securing a playoff berth. Balaji also lauded young opener Sai Sudharsan, highlighting his adaptability and ability to succeed as a technically sound batter in the fast-paced T20 era. Together, Gill and Sudharsan have formed one of the most reliable opening partnerships of IPL 2026.
